SHEPLEY will get a unique 6ft stone sculpture right in the heart of the community - and residents are being invited to have a chisel.

It will depict two children playing on an old oak tree.

Sculptor, David Bradbury, who lives in the village, said the idea stemmed from other nearby villages having stones sporting their names.

The aim is to make the sculpting a real community event with people being offered the chance to help out with its creation.

David, who has been involved with sculpting for many years, said: "It goes back to the Doomsday Book does Shepley and the only thing we have all got in common is that we all used to be young. I thought that was quite a rich image.

"The old is represented by the oak tree and the oak tree is quite symbolic - from an acorn to an oak tree."

He said he hoped the finished work would have a "magical" quality to it.

"I just wanted something really, really simple just to stand up for itself," he added.

He said the way in which the children are arranged will create a space between the two figures so that "people would get out their cars and wonder what's on the other side".

He said he wants to "grab people's imagination."

"Everyone seems to like it so hopefully we can get it done within a year," he added.

Stone from Shepley quarries will be used.

And two sites for the sculpture are being considered - by the Black Bull pub and by the library.

Speaking about the chance to take part in the actual sculpting he said: "As long as they keep away from the nose and fingers it should be all right!"

Money for the project has been raised by Shepley Village Association.

Chairman John Taylor said the sculpture would be great for the village.

"Shepley is a wonderful village to live in. It's got so many facilities and this is a really good way to put Shepley on the map.

"I think the emphasis on the children is entirely right because it's about the future and not the past. It will be a real statement about the village and make us stand out."

If you fancy a chisel call David on 01484 603254 or John on 01484 609682.